PSU help

Hi,


I recently purchased a new graphics card for my pc to fix an earlier problem. Nvidia Geforce 9500Gt, 512Mb.

However according to the card, it needs a minimum 350w PSU, I currently have a 250w PSU, and overtime, leaving the PC running the graphics slowly blur.


Hardware isn't really my area when it comes to comps, I tend to stick with the software end.

I'm on a budget so I'm thinking of replacing my old PSU with an Atrix 650w PSU, I've read up on this brand, and apparently it's not too good when it comes to PSU's and will probably only deliver half it's stated wattage.

My question is, will this PSU be sufficient to power my PC? I want enough to run the PC efficiently so 650w should be more than enough?

 

Checking through Google, reviews are not friendly for the Atrix 650w. Many of the regular posters on this forum prefer to use a good quality PSU, since it is a critical component in your computer. Consider PSU-1 or PSU-2. Both units are good quality, sold by an excellent online source. Either choice includes sending in a rebate (always a pain). Shipping is free, but that can change anytime.

 

If your system started with a 250Watt PSU, is there anything else that may be "out of balance ". It may be no use putting a "muscle" power supply into a system that cannot take advantage of it anyway...unless you want to have it available for your next build (hint).

Matt
Edit: Can you see what I mean? You started with the graphics card, then you need to upgrade the power supply. What next?

 

My canned text:

Use the eXtreme PSU Calculator Lite to determine your power supply unit (PSU) requirements. Plug in all the hardware you think you might have in 2 or 3 years (extra drives, bigger or 2nd video card, more RAM, etc.). Be sure to read and heed the notes at the bottom of the page. I recommend setting Capacitor Aging to 30%, and if you participate in distributive computing projects (e.g. BOINC or Folding@Home), I recommend setting TDP to 100%. Research your video card and pay particular attention to the power supply requirements for your card listed on your video card maker's website. If not listed, check a comparable card (same graphics engine and RAM) from a different maker. The key specifications, in order of importance are:

1. Current (amperage or amps) on the +12V rail,
2. Efficiency,
3. Total wattage.

Then look for power supply brands listed under the "Good" column of PC Mechanic's PSU Reference List. Ensure the supplied amperage on the +12V rails of your chosen PSU meets the requirements of your video card. Don't try to save a few dollars by getting a cheap supply. Digital electronics, including CPUs, RAM, and today's advanced graphics cards, need clean, stable power. A good, well chosen supply will provide years of service and upgrade wiggle room. I strongly recommend you pick a supply with an efficiency rating equal to, or greater than 80%. Look for the 80 Plus - EnergyStar Compliant label. And don't forget to budget for a good UPS with AVR (automatic voltage regulation).